Rusape - Discovering Zimbabwe

Travelling to Rusape

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Rusape, a pretty good destination in Zimbabwe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Rusape and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Rusape, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zimbabwe, here's everything to know about Rusape for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Rusape

Rusape is a small town located in the eastern part of Zimbabwe, about 170 kilometers southeast of Harare, the capital city. It sits in the province of Manicaland, on the main highway that links Harare to Mutare, the country's fourth-largest city. With a population of around 30,000 people, Rusape is known for its agricultural produce, including coffee, tea, and avocados. The town is also a hub for transportation and trade. Some of the notable landmarks in Rusape include the Rusape Museum, the Vumba Botanical Gardens, and the numerous natural mountain parks surrounding the town.

What to visit in Rusape

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Rusape, Zimbabwe: 1. Vumba Mountains - This picturesque range of mountains is located on the eastern border of Zimbabwe and is a popular destination for nature lovers due to its stunning scenery, unique flora and fauna, and numerous hiking trails.
2. Nyanga National Park - Located in the eastern highlands of Zimbabwe, this national park is home to some of the country's most dramatic and beautiful landscapes, including dense forests, sparkling lakes, and soaring mountains.
3. Mutarazi Falls - This 262-meter waterfall is the highest in Zimbabwe and is located near the border of Mozambique. Visitors can take a guided tour of the falls, or take a helicopter ride over the area for a breathtaking view.
4. Osborne Dam - This impressive dam is located in the nearby town of Marondera and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports.
5. Historical sites - Rusape is also home to several historical sites such as the Vumba Botanical Gardens, Kwayedza Lodge, and the National Heroes Acre, which honors Zimbabwean war heroes.
Overall, Rusape offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history that is sure to delight and fascinate visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zimbabwe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Rusape

The best time to visit Rusape, Zimbabwe is during the dry months of May to September. During this time, the weather is mostly dry and sunny which is ideal for outdoor activities like game drives and safaris. The temperatures are also moderate ranging from 15°C to 29°C making it comfortable to engage in various activities within the region. However, it's important to note that June to August can be the peak tourist season and accommodation rates may be high.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Rusape

There are several ways to get to Rusape, Zimbabwe, depending on your starting location and mode of transportation. Here are some options: 1. By car: You can drive to Rusape from Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, by taking the Mutare road. The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 170 kilometers.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily services from Harare to Rusape, including Eagle Liner, ZUPCO, and Mukwakwami Express. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, and fares vary depending on the company and class of travel.
3. By train: Zimbabwe National Railways operates a daily passenger train service from Harare to Rusape. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes and passes through scenic landscapes and countryside. Fares depend on the class of travel.
4. By private transfer: If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, you can book a private transfer from Harare to Rusape. Several companies offer this service, and you can choose between a car or minibus, depending on your group size and budget.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Rusape, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Rusape

Rusape is a small town located in Zimbabwe, known for its agricultural produce. Here are some typical foods of Rusape: 1. Sadza - This is a staple food in Zimbabwe and is made of finely ground maize meal. It is cooked in boiling water to form a thick, stiff porridge that is then eaten with various stews and curries.
2. Mabhonzo emombe - This traditional beef stew is made with tender beef, carrots and potatoes in a rich tomato-based sauce.
3. Mutumbu stew - This is a tripe stew that is rich and flavorful. The tripe is cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce until tender, and is usually served with sadza.
4. Madora - These are dehydrated mopane worms, which are a traditional snack in Zimbabwe. They are often eaten fried or grilled, and are said to be high in protein and other nutrients.
5. Chikafu - This is a type of porridge made from sorghum flour. It can be served plain or with various stews and curries.
6. Chimukuyu - This is a traditional dish made from ground nuts, often served as a sauce with meat or vegetables.
7. Madora dumplings - These are dumplings made with cornmeal and madora (mopane worms). They are cooked in boiling water and served with a sauce or stew.
8. Matemba - These are dried kapenta fish that are often used in stews and curries. They are high in protein and add a delicious depth of flavor to dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zimbabwe here.

Is Rusape an expensive destination for tourists?

Rusape, Zimbabwe is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. Zimbabwe is generally an affordable country to travel in, with lower prices for accommodation, food, and activities compared to many other destinations in Africa. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation and activities you choose. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking and also be aware of any extra costs such as visa fees or park fees.

Where to find accomodation in Rusape

Rusape is a small town located in the eastern part of Zimbabwe, approximately 166 km east of the capital city, Harare. There is limited accommodation in Rusape itself, but there are some options nearby in the surrounding areas. The most popular areas to find accommodation when visiting Rusape include: 1. Juliasdale, which is approximately 60 km east of Rusape and offers a variety of lodges, guesthouses, and camping sites in a picturesque mountainous setting. 2. Nyanga, which is approximately 80 km northeast of Rusape and is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. There are several lodges and camping sites in the area. 3. Mutare, which is approximately 100 km southeast of Rusape and is a larger city with more accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. It's important to note that the roads in these areas can be challenging, so it's recommended to have a 4x4 vehicle and driver with experience driving on unpaved roads.
You can check hotel prices at Rusape here:
Booking.com

Is Rusape a safe destination for tourists?

Rusape, like any other place in the world, has its share of safety concerns just like any other destination. The Zimbabwean Government ensures that tourists are safe by deploying security and surveillance personnel to monitor the safety of the visitors. It is advisable for tourists to avoid walking alone at late hours and to avoid carrying valuables or large sums of money on them. It is also important to stay informed about local safety concerns and to follow the advice of local authorities. Overall, it is generally safe to visit Rusape with proper precautions.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zimbabwe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Rusape.

What type of travelers will enjoy Rusape the most?

Rusape, Zimbabwe caters to different types of travelers, making it an ideal destination for couples, young people looking for fun, and families. The town offers a variety of attractions and activities, such as museums, parks, and hiking trails that make it a great spot for relax and enjoy nature. Couples may enjoy the romantic scenery of the Vumba Mountains and Nyanga National Park with its beautiful waterfalls. With numerous hiking trails and adventure activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, and zip-lining, young people looking for fun will have a great time here. Families can also have fun exploring the Rusape Bird Sanctuary, Kwayedza Elephant Sanctuary and experience wildlife and diversity with the Chimanimani Mountains. Overall, everybody can enjoy Rusape because it boasts a diverse range of attractions, giving travelers a chance to unwind, have fun, and experience Zimbabwe's natural beauty.

How to get around Rusape

In Rusape, you can use different kinds of transportation to move around. The most common are minibusses or "kombis" which serve as the main mode of public transportation. Taxis can also be used, and these can either be shared or hired privately. If you prefer to have a more private and comfortable means of transportation, you can hire a car or take a mototaxi known as "moto". However, it is important to note that mototaxis are not recommended for longer distances or in unsafe areas.

What to see around Rusape

1. Nyanga National Park: Known for its scenic highlights like the Nyangombe Falls, the Mutarazi Falls and some amazing viewpoints. Nyanga National Park is a great place to hike and take in the beauty of Zimbabwe.
2. Mtarazi Falls: Standing at an impressive 762 meters tall, Mtarazi Falls is the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe and offers breathtaking views.
3. Vumba Botanical Gardens: This beautifully landscaped garden is filled with indigenous plants, trees and flowers, making for a perfect escape into nature.
4. The Great Zimbabwe Ruins: These are the largest and most impressive ancient structures in Zimbabwe, and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Chimanimani Mountains: These are a beautiful range of mountains in eastern Zimbabwe, offering great hiking and scenic views.
6. Mutare Museum: This is a small but fascinating museum with a collection of artefacts from the region's history.
7. Goromonzi Nature Reserve: This reserve offers opportunities to hike, picnic, and spot some of Zimbabwe's wildlife.
For every travel information about Zimbabwe you can click here.

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